Prevalence and sequences of musculoskeletal symptoms among a group of dentists

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence and sequences of musculo-skeletal symptoms among dentists. Sixty one active dentists and equal number of physicians answered a standardized Nordic questionnaire for assessment of musculoskeletal symptoms. The dentists showed a significant higher prevalence of neck, shoulder, lower back, pelvis and foot symptoms. Dentists had an increased risk for back pain lasting more than 30 days [OR 5.78] when compared with physicians. Lower back and shoulder symptoms had caused more troubles for the dentists and had reduced their daily and Leisure activities. Ergonomic education and work organization are needed in dentistry work to overcome the occurrence and consequences of musculoskeletal symptoms among dentists